Welcome to the historic 1066 Country

With the spectacular combination of coast and countryside that's scattered with relics and ruins from the past, 1066 Country is the kind of place where you don't just learn about history, you live it. Known world-wide for its heritage, 1066 Country offers visitors a rich historical experience.

This cosmopolitan town is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe, the remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror, a preserved Old Town and a strong local arts community. Hastings is also home to the Jerwood Gallery, a stunning new art gallery housing a collection of 20th and 21st century British art that has never before been seen by the public. It is located in the Stade area, in the middle of the fishing quarter.

Around the time of the Norman Conquest Hastings was a thriving fishing and trading centre and the original port lies deep below today’s town centre. In 1287 the Great Storm hit the southern coast of England and caused the cliff and half its castle to fall into the sea, ruining its harbour. The town then moved eastward.

Hastings is a Cinque Port, and up until the 16th century, with other coastal towns provided the ships and men who guarded king and country from frequent and vicious attacks in return for special privileges. This unique confederation of South East England Channel ports was the original force behind England’s maritime power.